United prepare Real Madrid raid

Newcastle United have emerged as the most likely club to land Javier Saviola from Real Madrid on a six-month loan deal, after Portsmouth manager Tony Adams ruled out a move for the 27-year-old earlier today.

Speaking to Setanta Sports, Adams said: 'Sometimes it can take six months to a year to get to know the pace of the Premiership so, when I'm looking for players, I'm looking at players with a certain fitness level to start with.

'That's maybe why I'm not taking him [Saviola]. I've not pursued it - I've looked at over 150 players in the last two and a half months.'

With Michael Owen out for at least six to eight weeks due to injury, the Magpies are desperately seeking reinforcements, and it has now emerged that they are keen to bring the Argentine speed-demon, who is affectionately called 'The Rabbit' to the Premiership.